The kitchen is the heart of the home, not just the place where you cook. Here, conversations flow, and you get to make beautiful memories with those you love, so it’s obviously crucial to choose the right kitchen style. But when you take a look at those Pinterest boards or catalogues, you probably feel overwhelmed because there are way too many options, and you’re wondering what the right option is. The truth is, trends come and go, so your dream kitchen shouldn’t start with them. It should start with you. So, instead of overthinking it, consider what sort of space you’d like to live in every day. Some people will say they want something neat and modern. Others will say they prefer a traditional and warmer style. It’s different for everyone, and it helps to think about how this space fits into your daily life to help you make a decision about the right style.
What are some of the most popular kitchen styles?
There are endless kitchen styles out there you can select from, but let’s take a look at some of the most popular to inspire you:
1. Shaker kitchens
This type of kitchen design takes inspiration from the Shaker style of furniture and architecture. The Shakers (a religious group living in the US during the 18th-19th centuries) were quite renowned for their functional designs, because they focused on utility and quality craftsmanship. Shaker kitchens stand out for their simple, clean lines and cabinets that feature flat-panel doors and a simple frame around the edge. They include natural materials in the design (e.g., wood and stone), and they have a muted, earthy colour palette. You can also adapt them to different styles, depending on the materials and finishes used, and achieve a timeless, elegant look.
2. Modern kitchens
This style emphasizes sleek lines, with minimalist aesthetics, and uses a range of textures, materials, and hues that are meant to create a harmonious look. In a modern kitchen design, you’ll see cabinets with minimal hardware (or no visible hardware at all), which are made of laminates, wood veneer, or metal. These cabinets feature patterns or bold colours generally, and they make for a great option if you’re the type of person who prefers a minimalist aesthetic with a focus on functionality that is often seen in beige kitchens.
3. Traditional kitchens
This timeless design is heavily inspired by design features in the Victorian and Georgian eras. It features ornate details, rich hues, and natural materials, and it creates a warm atmosphere. Cabinets are made of wood, and they feature raised-panel doors and decorative mouldings. If a classic look that feels inviting is what you’re after, this kitchen style is a good fit for you.
4. Country kitchens
Country kitchens evoke a live-in feel that reminds you of historic rural homes. Simple lines, natural materials, and vintage accents are all elements specific to this style. Cabinets are made of wood, the hardware is functional and simple, and countertops are made from stone or butcher block. It’s a great style that offers a warm (and traditional) look. Plus, it easily adapts to your budget.
5. Bohemian kitchens
Bohemian kitchens have an eclectic and highly personalized aesthetic, and as opposed to strictly minimalist spaces, they prioritize comfort over conventional rules. In a bohemian kitchen, the secret is to blend contrasting cultures and eras, so you’ll often see a modern marble countertop paired with vintage brass fixtures. Plus, this style relies heavily on earthy elements, like reclaimed wood shelves and terracotta, and indoor plants are an essential hallmark that infuse the space with life.
What should you consider when choosing a style?
Alright, so we’ve talked about the most popular kitchen styles, but you may still feel unsure about what to choose. Don’t worry; we’ve got your back! Here are some tips to make it easier for you to decide:
- Take the home’s architecture into account. The kitchen style you choose should complement the overall style of your home. Say, for example, that you have a colonial-style home; in this case, a traditional kitchen is the best fit. If, on the other hand, your home is modern, it only makes sense to opt for a contemporary kitchen style, don’t you think?
- Consider your lifestyle. Obviously, this is important, because all homeowners are different. How do you use the kitchen? What features matter to you? Take the time to answer these questions, because then it will be easier for you to choose a style. Some people love to entertain and cook in this space, and in that situation, a larger kitchen with plenty of seating and counter space is the best option. However, other people may be more on the minimalist side, and in this case, a contemporary style makes more sense.
- Think about your budget. Let’s be honest, kitchen renovations aren’t cheap at all. This is why it’s important to let your budget dictate the choices you make, because you should be able to afford the kitchen style you desire. Some of them, like the country style and the traditional style, are more expensive because they incorporate ornate details and use natural materials, so they may not be a good fit for everyone budget-wise.
- Look for inspiration. It can be very helpful to browse websites, décor magazines, and social media platforms to get ideas for your kitchen design. Although we don’t necessarily encourage you to follow trends, you can use these as inspiration and gather your favourite elements and designs, which you can later incorporate in your own home.
- Pick the colours and materials you desire. Once you’re clear about what kind of kitchen style you’d like, it’s important to pick the materials and colours that will complement the design. A traditional kitchen, for instance, may feature natural materials and warm, earthy tones. On the other hand, a modern kitchen may use bright, bold hues alongside glass and metal.
The bottom line
You may feel overwhelmed when thinking about choosing the right kitchen style, but hopefully, this guide can help you make a decision. Remember: what matters in the end is to create a space you enjoy spending time in and feels like a natural part of your home, whether you go for modern simplicity or shaker elegance.